MIT scientists have developed a cutting-edge augmented reality headset that offers X-ray vision capabilities. The headset, called X-AR, utilizes computer vision and wireless perception to identify items that are concealed from view. While the concept of X-ray vision may sound like something straight out of a superhero movie, the technology behind X-AR is rooted in a complex system of machine learning and computer algorithms.
“Our whole goal with this project was to build an augmented reality system that allows you to see things that are invisible — things that are in boxes or around corners — and in doing so, it can guide you toward them and truly allow you to see the physical world in ways that were not possible before,” said in a press release Fadel Adib, who is an associate professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, the director of the Signal Kinetics group in the Media Lab, and the senior author of a paper on X-AR.
The X-AR headset is designed to identify hidden items that have been labeled with RFID tags. The headset scans the environment and uses computer vision to locate the tags. Once a tag is detected, the headset overlays the location of the item on the user’s field of view, allowing them to see the item as if it were visible. The headset can localize hidden items to within 9.8 centimeters, on average, which is an impressive feat.
In a recent test conducted in a warehouse-like environment, users were able to use the X-AR headset to pick up hidden items with an accuracy rate of 96 percent. This level of accuracy is a testament to the advanced technology that powers the headset.
The X-AR headset has a wide range of potential applications, especially in industries such as logistics and warehousing. For example, warehouse workers could use the headset to quickly locate items that are hidden behind other products or stored in hard-to-reach areas. This would save time and increase efficiency in the workplace.
However, the X-AR headset is not without its limitations. The fact that it relies on RFID tags means that only items that have been labeled with tags can be detected. This limits its potential use cases, as not all items may be tagged.
Overall, the X-AR headset represents a significant technological advancement in the field of augmented reality. It offers a glimpse into the future of how we may interact with the world around us, and the potential applications of this technology are vast. While there are limitations to the technology at present, it is exciting to see the potential for further development and expansion in the future.